On New Year’s Day, St. Bernard Parish suffered a tragic loss. Our beloved Pastor, shepherd and friend, Fr. Eric Freed, was taken from us as a result of a horrific crime. Amid sadness, anger and disbelief, we give thanks to God for tremendously blessing us for the time we had with him. This tragedy reminds us how fragile life is and brings us closer to God as we all pray for the hope of eternal life.

We would like to express our sincere thanks to the community for your support during these past weeks. We have been overwhelmed with prayers, kind words of sympathy and concern, memorials, vigils, spiritual gifts and donations of time, talent and treasure.

From law enforcement to the media, from individuals to businesses, from local communities of worship to people of non-religious paths, we thank you. You have rallied around us as loving neighbors and caring friends. The list is endless and there are too many to name specifically, but know that the concern and care of each of you is deeply appreciated and has helped us move forward as individuals and a faith community. You have truly heard the commandment, “Love thy neighbor as thyself.”